4 Free Agent Centers Lakers Should Target After Mark Williams Trade Falls Through
By Cem Yolbulan
JaVale McGee
Another former Laker who could make his return to LA is JaVale McGee. After being a crucial part of the 2020 title team with the Lakers, the veteran center hasn't had much success in his subsequent stops. He played for the Cavs, Nuggets, Suns, Mavericks, and the Kings since then before signing a professional contract in Puerto Rico in January 2025.
From that 2020 championship team, Dwight Howard is generally considered a potential option for the Lakers on social media and among the fans.
What is a more likely and probably better option, however, is JaVale McGee. He is younger and has been a productive NBA player more recently.
In his heyday, McGee was an elite lob threat and would have been an excellent partner with Doncic. He has already played with him in Dallas and played with LeBron in LA. He has a ton of playoff experience and won three rings.
How close physically he is to his heyday is the biggest question about his potential addition. At 37, he likely doesn't have the same level of athleticism anymore. But, if he can rebound the ball, block some shots, and finish lobs for 15 minutes a game, there could be a role for him with the Lakers.